Nursing and midwifery have been described as a calling that requires empathy and compassion and not just a profession.

The Commissioner for Health, Dr. Tomi Coker said this at the Convocation Ceremony of 2021/2022 set of the Ogun State College of Nursing Sciences, Idi-Aba, Abeokuta.

‎Dr. Coker described the graduands as the backbone of the healthcare system, the first point of contact for many patients and often the difference between life and death.

‎"Your role in ensuring safe deliveries,administering compassionate care and advocating for the health and well-being of your patients cannot be overstated, "she said.

‎The Commissioner urged the 269 graduands as they step into the workforce to uphold the highest standards of professionalism, empathy and excellence.

‎Speaking on the theme, "Care Meet Codes: Navigating A New Era of Compassionate Technology in Nursing, the guest lecturer, Dr. Christian Asonye of Department of Nursing, Babcock University, advised the graduands not to allow technology to evaluate their patients, saying technology does not have hormones but are wired.

‎Dr. Asonye said patients care must be uttermost priority to them and whatever decision they make must be beneficial to the patients.

‎"The future of Nursing is about using technology wisely and ethically, therefore human touch is expedient, Nurses must not lose touch," he said.

‎In her address, the Provost Ogun State College of Nursing Sciences, Dr. Jeminat Sodimu, said it was essential that the graduands approach these advancements with a focus on compassion and patient-centered care, reminding them that, as they go forth in the profession, they should remember that Nursing was a profession deeply rooted in human connection.

‎She said, even though technology could automate processes and enhance efficiency, it is the nurse’s responsibility to ensure that, the human touch remains central to nursing practice.

‎"The Community needs your brilliancy and laudable innovative ideas to illuminate the path towards success and to make a positive impact in the world,” she noted.

‎Two of the graduands, Zainab Ogunrinola and Mariam Lasisi express their joy while appreciating God that they were alive and well to witness their convocation ceremony.